Cozy and Crowd-Pleasing: Meatball Parm in a Blanket

Jump to recipe Ah, the holiday season—filled with festive lights, endless to-do lists, and, let’s be honest, a lot of food. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, attending a potluck, or just looking for a crowd-pleasing snack to serve your family while you marathon holiday movies, one thing is clear: we all need some good and easy appetizer recipes on hand this time of year.

That’s where Meatball Parm in a Blanket comes in. These bite-sized bundles of joy are the perfect blend of comfort food and party-ready fare. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, they’re a stress-free addition to any holiday menu. Plus, who doesn’t love the classic combo of meatballs, marinara, and melty mozzarella wrapped in golden, crispy pizza dough?

When it comes to party snacks or weeknight dinners that hit the sweet spot between fun and flavorful, Meatball Parm in a Blanket steals the show. Think gooey mozzarella, tangy marinara, and juicy meatballs all wrapped in a golden pizza dough hug. This dish is your childhood favorite elevated—perfect for game days, holiday parties, or a cozy night in with a movie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: With just four ingredients, you can whip this up in no time. Perfect for those moments when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

• Kid and Adult Approved: Whether you're feeding a family or a crowd of friends, everyone will love these bite-sized, cheesy pockets of goodness.

• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or sprinkle some herbs to make it your own.

How I Discovered This Dish

The idea for Meatball Parm in a Blanket came from my love for comforting Italian-American classics like meatball subs and pizza. I wanted a snackable version that was just as hearty but portable enough for any occasion. When I tested this recipe using a tube of refrigerated pizza dough and bite-sized meatballs, it was an instant win. The simplicity of it makes you wonder why you didn’t try it sooner!

Pro Tip: The Dipping Sauce Makes It

Don’t forget the extra marinara for dipping—it’s the ultimate finishing touch that takes these blankets from tasty to unforgettable.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a game day party, looking for an easy appetizer, or just craving something indulgent, Meatball Parm in a Blanket is the answer. Try it once, and it might just become your new go-to recipe for any gathering.

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Meatball Parm in a Blanket Recipe: Ingredients

• 1 (13.8-ounce) tube refrigerated thin-crust pizza dough

• All-purpose flour, for dusting

• 1 cup pizza or marinara sauce, plus more for dipping

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• Bite-size frozen meatballs, defrosted (I used minis but you can use regular size or minis!)

Directions

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Roll & Slice: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Slice the dough widthwise into 3 equal strips.

3. Assemble the Filling: Spread about 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce onto each strip (don't use too much or it will be quite messy), leaving a small border without sauce along the edges. Sprinkle 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella evenly over each strip.

4. Add Meatballs: Arrange meatballs along the length of each strip, spacing them evenly.

5. Roll & Cut: Carefully roll the dough over the meatballs to form a log, enclosing the meatballs in the dough. Slice between each meatball, and pinch one end of each piece to seal. Place the pieces seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, with the exposed meatball side facing up.

6. Top & Bake: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of sauce over the exposed side of each piece and sprinkle with a little more mozzarella. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.

7. Serve & Enjoy: Let the bites cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with extra marinara or pizza sauce for dipping.

Tip:

For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan and fresh parsley on top after baking.